Mark Hunter MP

Charles Kennedy returns to Cheadle

March 19, 2008 9:44 AM

Mark and Charles celebrating just after victory in the by-election

Charles Kennedy, former leader of the Liberal Democrats and MP for Ross, Skye and Inverness West this weekend re-visited the Cheadle Constituency the scene of one of the greatest achievements of his leadership, victory in the Cheadle by-election in July 2005, to attend the Cheadle Liberal Democrats Annual Dinner.

The dinner was a big success with well over 100 people including Councillors, activists and members from all sections of the local community present. The event was held at the Village Hotel in Cheadle and featured an introduction from local MP Mark Hunter and a speech by Charles Kennedy.

During his speech Mr Kennedy spoke about the successes that the Stockport and Cheadle Liberal Democrats have achieved in recent years. He paid tribute to the 3 MPs from the area Mark Hunter, Andrew Stunell and John Leech, and the fact that the Liberal Democrats have kept control of the Council since 1999 gradually increasing their majority over the years.

The dinner itself is a major annual fundraiser for the local Liberal Democrats and helps towards paying for the keeping in touch leaflets and newspapers that keep local residents informed about the activities of the local Liberal Democrat team.

Speaking after the event, Mr Hunter said, "Like many others I was very pleased to see Charles again in our local area. He was very supportive during the by-election and I know he was pleased to revisit the scene of an earlier triumph.

"It was brilliant to see so many of our local supporters there from all sections of the community and from all over the local area. The reaction to Charles' speech was excellent and I know the evening was enjoyed by all.

"Now we must focus our efforts in the short-term on the forthcoming local council elections on May 1st, and in the longer term on a successful defence of the parliamentary seat come the next local election."